
Pregnancy massage consists of prenatal and postnatal massage and may reduce the less pleasant symptoms of pregnancy and recovery after labor.
What Is Pregnancy Massage?
Just as it sounds, prenatal massage is simply gentle massage performed during a pregnancy. It is fairly common for women to receive some sort of massage during pregnancy. Massage works to lessen anxiety and relax the mother, which can go a long way towards making pregnancy enjoyable and less painful.
Prenatal massage has been shown to reduce many of the negative symptoms that occur during pregnancy, both physical and emotional. Women who get regular prenatal massages experience lowered instances of anxiety and depression, as well as a reduced risk of premature labor. They also experience relief from many of the aches and pains associated with pregnancy.
Postnatal massage is performed after delivery to aid in the mother’s recovery, decreasing pain associated with labor.
Should I Get Pregnancy Massage?
If you are interested in either prenatal or postnatal massage (or both), speak with your doctor and find out what he or she has to say about it. There may be reasons why your doctor would advise against it, for example if you have a high-risk pregnancy, an injury or other medical condition. If your doctor has given the OK, be sure to choose a massage therapist that is certified for prenatal and postnatal massage.
In the Amarillo area, both Amber Davis and Brenda Rincon at the Downtown Athletic Club are certified prenatal and postnatal massage therapists, and perform other types of massage, as well. Contact them now to discuss pregnancy massage.